Episode 6: In this episode, Todd Schmiedeler speaks with Omar Ayyash, the CEO of the World Trade Center of Kentucky (WTCKY), about the role international trade plays in the state’s economy. The WTCKY is a nonprofit organization assisting businesses through training, matchmaking, and trade missions, such as the upcoming trip to Dubai. Todd and Omar explore how businesses can leverage the global World Trade Center network to generate leads and foster connections. They also emphasize the importance of global exposure and cross-cultural understanding, as building blocks for the grit and resilience needed for future workforce development.

Chapters

· 00:31 Welcome and Guest Introduction

· 02:28 Kentucky’s Rise in Global Trade

· 05:53 What Is the World Trade Center Kentucky?

· 10:32 WTCKY’s Dubai Trade Mission

· 15:31 The World Trade Center’s Global Network

· 21:43 Weathering A Shift in Domestic Focus

· 23:31 The Importance of Workforce Development

· 30:15 Conclusion

To Learn More about the World Trade Center Kentucky:

Website: www.WTCKY.org

Phone: (859) 225-0006

So, thank you so much for joining us again this time. I appreciate it so much. I look forward to seeing you again. In two weeks, we'll have a new guest on and we'll be able to chat again about leadership, about making a difference, and how nonprofits and long-term care organizations truly can make a difference in the lives of people every day that’s impactful. So, thanks again. See you in two weeks.

Hey, thanks for joining us on the Blueprint Strategy Podcast. We hope today's conversation sparked new ideas and inspired you to take action in your own organization.

To stay connected and never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe and follow us on our socials.

And remember, you can find more resources and information at www.thumbprint.consulting. Again, that's www.thumbprint.consulting. Until next time, keep finding ways to innovate and to leave your mark.

Episode 5: In this episode, Todd Schmiedeler speaks with Darrell Bramer, Executive Director of Operation Parent, about his personal journey and the vital mission of his organization. Darrell shares his transition from a 32-year career in corporate America to the nonprofit sector, a move he describes not as retirement, but as "rewiring" to align his work with his passion for helping families. The discussion explores Operation Parent's core mission: to empower parents to have "casual, courageous conversations" with their children about difficult topics like technology, mental health, and substance misuse. The conversation provides valuable insights for parents on navigating modern challenges, the importance of community, and how to proactively engage with their children to foster resilience and well-being.

Chapters

• 00:32 Introduction: From Corporate to Calling

• 04:10 The Mission of Operation Parent

• 07:02 Resources for Parents: Handbooks and Webinars

• 11:14 Community Outreach and Impact

• 24:15 Navigating the Digital Age and Mental Health

• 30:30 Leadership, Mentorship, and Looking Forward

• 32:28 Conclusion

To Learn More about Operation Parent:

Website: www.OperationParent.org

Phone: (502) 265-9045

Email: info@operationparent.org

Hey, thanks for joining us on the Blueprint Strategy Podcast. We hope today's conversation sparked new ideas and inspired you to take action in your own organization.

To stay connected and never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe and follow us on our socials.

And remember, you can find more resources and information at www.thumbprint.consulting. Again, that's www.thumbprint.consulting. Until next time, keep finding ways to innovate and to leave your mark.

Episode 4: This podcast episode features Sarah Brady, President of FSH Works, discussing her journey from starting work at age 16 to leading a statewide and multi-state organization focused on helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency. FSH Works, an upstream initiative of Family Scholar House, provides comprehensive wraparound services including academic and career coaching, with a particular focus on non-traditional students and entry-level workers. Sarah highlights the organization's data-driven approach, utilizing a custom database to track longitudinal impact and demonstrate return on investment for partners and funders. She also offers advice for aspiring leaders, stressing the value of building relationships and "being in the rooms", ultimately revealing in interesting surprise for Todd, at the end of the episode.

Chapters

00:31 Introductions and Sarah's Path to Leadership

04:40 Understanding FSH Works and Its Reach

07:11 Key Programs and the Trager Response Center

11:00 Impact, Data-Driven Approach, and Overcoming Challenges

23:38 Employer Partnerships and Advice for Aspiring Leaders

29:18 The Power of Mentorship and Final Thoughts on Leadership

34:02 Conclusion

Conclusion

And I'm thankful for the audience spending a little time with us. I look forward to seeing you again in two weeks. Thanks so much and have a great day.

To Learn More about FSW Works:

Website: www.fshworks.family

Phone: (502) 584-8090

Hey, thanks for joining us on the Blueprint Strategy Podcast. We hope today's conversation sparked new ideas and inspired you to take action in your own organization.

To stay connected and never miss an episode, be sure to subscribe and follow us on our socials.

And remember, you can find more resources and information at www.thumbprint.consulting. Again, that's www.thumbprint.consulting. Until next time, keep finding ways to innovate and to leave your mark.